Basements are below ground level, or below-grade, and are susceptible to moisture and leaks. Hardwood floors are not waterproof and can exacerbate any water damage that may occur in your basement.
Basement Flooring Buying Guide
Learn about the best water-resistant basement flooring for a dry and comfortable home. From vinyl flooring and engineered hardwood flooring to subfloors, find out everything you need in our Basement Flooring Buying Guide.
Basement Flooring
When you're renovating your basement, the first step is finding the perfect floor. From vinyl tiles to engineered hardwood, there are many options to choose from. Get started on your basement renovation today by shopping online or in-store.
Types of Basement Flooring
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is made of 100 percent plastic and is resistant to moisture. It is a great option for high traffic basements and is super easy to clean. Vinyl flooring is also inexpensive and easy to install.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is made from composite wood or manufactured board. It is a great alternative to hardwood because it is resistant to moisture while also increasing the value of your home. It is available in a wide range of widths, wood types, and grains.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is created with a multi-layer synthetic material that has the appearance of wood. A budget-friendly alternative to engineered hardwood, laminate flooring is resistant to moisture when installed correctly. Its protective surface keeps scratches and dents at bay, which means it is easy to maintain. Laminate is ideal for those who use their basement regularly.
Floor Tiles
Tile flooring is a popular option in basements due to the fact that it can be easily cleaned and maintained. Tiles are resistant to moisture and are available in a wide selection of sizes and types.
Carpet
Carpet adds an element of warmth to your basement. Available in different colours and piles, carpet is a good choice for playrooms for small children. It will have to be replaced if there is any water damage in the basement.
Subfloor: Important Things to Consider
- Subfloor is a great way to make your basement warm and inviting. It adds an other layer of cushion to your flooring.
- Floor underlayment is necessary when installing vinyl, engineered hardwood, laminate, and carpet. You can install tiles directly on top of concrete, but this is only recommended if your basement is low-traffic.
- When choosing a subfloor for your basement it is recommended you get underlayment that is moisture resistant.
Moisture Check
It is important that you survey your basement floor before hiring anyone to install your floors. Moisture checks need to happen before flooring is put down. You can easily do this by taping a cut open garage bag to the floor and sealing all the edges with tape. After 48 hours, check under the bag for moisture, if there is moisture on the bag that means you have a problem with moisture in your basement.
You can solve moisture issues in your basement by hiring a professional to seal any leaks, insulate pipes, install a fan, or purchase a dehumidifier or sump pump.
Let Lowe's Install Your Flooring For You
After you select your flooring, a Flooring Specialist will help you coordinate your installation. An installer will measure your space to ensure a perfect fit and will make note of any existing damage to the walls or baseboards.
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